Barmouth Tourist Information

The seaside resort of Barmouth in north-west Wales lies on the wide River Mawddacch estuary in Cardigan Bay. The town has a typical Welsh charm with stone and slate-built houses, often 3 and 4 storeys high, set against the Welsh mountain backdrop.

Stunning views can be enjoyed across the wide estuary, the beautiful harbour and the endless sandy beach. Located on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park it is a most beautiful scenic location.

Established as a shipbuilding town, Barmouth has been shaped by its interesting history. A two mile railway track was laid in 1895 by the owner of "McDougall's Flour". It was used to transport building materials to construct the seaside resort of Fairbourne Village. The line is now used as a narrow gauge railway which transports visitors between Fairbourne station and Penrhyn Point where the Barmouth ferry can be boarded.

Barmouth has plenty of local shops and inns to meet most requirements, including excellent local pub food. Notable buildings include the 19th century Roundhouse Prison] and the unusual mediaeval "Ty Gwyn" tower house. The "Arousal Cafe" may be regarded with some alarm. It is really named the "Carousal Cafe" but locals wags steal the letter "C" each time it is replaced!

The lovely St John's Church has some stunning stained glass windows and a marble font of an angel holding a seashell - a copy of Thorwaldsen's Font in Copenhagen Cathedral.

The wide river estuary is spanned by Barmouth Bridge, a 900 yard (820m) long wooden bridge which was built in 1867 to carry the Aberystwyth and Welsh Coast Railway. Today it continues to carry local trains and pedestrians can walk across on the side path for a nominal fee. It is a great experience with superb views, particularly at sunset, and is a favourite with photographers.

The busy harbour has many fishing and leisure craft. The famous Three Peaks Yacht Race starts from Barmouth each June. It involves sailing up the coast and running up Snowdon, then Scafell Pike and finally Ben Nevis without any motor transport, and is only for the truly super-fit!

Still on a nautical flavour, visitors can enjoy the RNLI Lifeboat Visitors' Centre, purchase souvenirs to support this worthwhile charity and view the lifeboat from the viewing gallery.

Although the town has a summer funfair and some arcades, it is generally popular for family beach holidays and those looking for a quiet vacation in a beautiful part of the world. It is ideal for walking, mountain walking, cycling and bird watching.

The expansive beach at Barmouth allows plenty of space for children to play ball games, dig in the sand, sunbathe or play in the shallow safe waters.

The nearby area has some unique places to visit. The Italianate Village of Portmeirion is a pleasant 11 mile drive along the coast, passing the well-preserved Harlech Castle along the way.

Other historic monuments include the Segontium Roman Fort near Anglesey, the impressive Criccieth Castle, and the magnificent Caernarfon Castle just 27 miles away.

Snowdonia National Park is right on the doorstep and offers a host of beautiful outdoor scenery for hiking, while those wanting easier terrain can enjoy the Mawddacch Trail, a hiking and cycling path along the old railway track to Dolgellau.